Chicken Chili
User Reviews
5
Chicken Chili
Description
Chicken Chili brings together bite-sized chicken breast cooked with aromatic onions, then simmered in a complex sauce composed of tomato elements and a blend of chili beans, diced tomatoes, and green chilies. The seasoning combines traditional taco spices with ranch dressing mix and garlic salt, giving depth and seasoning balance. The inclusion of Dr Pepper (or similar soda) introduces a nuanced sweetness that softens the acidity of the tomato components while enhancing the overall flavor profile. Slow simmering melds all ingredients, creating a thick and rich chili.
With tender chicken and a moderately thick sauce, this chili can be served as a main dish perfect for colder days. Its toppings such as Mexican cheese, avocado, jalapeños, and fresh lime enhance the flavors and add layers of texture and freshness. It pairs well with tortilla strips or warm bread for dipping or alongside rice for a filling meal.
The recipe allows for easy adjustments in spice and salt levels, and simmering time can be extended for deeper flavor infusion. The use of soda as a cooking liquid is an effective technique to add sweetness and complexity without extra sugar.
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 Tablespoons neutral cooking oil generic cooking oil
- 1 large onion (finely diced)
- 2 lbs. chicken breast (cut into pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 ounces Dr Pepper soda or Coke or Root Beer
- (2) .5 ounce cans tomato sauce (plain)
- (2) .5 ounce cans chili beans
- (1) .5 ounce can diced tomatoes petite
- (1) ounce can green chilies (chopped)
- 3 Tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 Tablespoon chili powder
- 2 Tablespoons Ranch dressing mix
- 1 to 2 teaspoons garlic salt (start with 1 tsp)
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add oil. Add onions and cook for about 5 minutes or until onions begin to soften.
- Add chicken and saute until no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add Dr. Pepper.
- Stir in tomato sauce, chili beans, diced tomatoes, green chilies, taco seasoning, chili powder, ranch powder, and garlic salt.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for at least 15 minutes on medium-low heat.
- Serve with Mexican cheese, tortilla strips, fresh avocado, sour cream or Mexican crema, cilantro, jalapeno, and fresh lime.